Monarda didyma 'Pardon My Lavender II' | Bee Balm

Monarda didyma 'Pardon My Lavender II' PP34131 CPBRAF, commonly called Bee Balm is a standout perennial that brings vibrant lavender-purple blooms to sunny garden spaces and containers, with its compact size and easy-care attributes making it ideal for both novice and seasoned gardeners. This variety is celebrated for its excellent disease resistance, notably outperforming traditional bee balms with improved mildew tolerance and a tidier growth habit. What sets this cultivar apart is its superior performance in challenging conditions. The dense, well-branched plant produces abundant flower clusters that attract pollinators throughout the blooming season, creating a dynamic focal point in any landscape. Unlike older bee balm varieties prone to powdery mildew, 'Pardon My Lavender II' maintains pristine foliage even in humid climates, eliminating the need for constant maintenance or fungicide treatments. Perfect for mixed borders, pollinator gardens, or container displays, this patented variety thrives in full sun with minimal fussing. Its refined appearance and reliable performance make it an investment in long-term garden success, delivering season after season of stunning color without the typical headaches associated with traditional bee balms.

Exceptional Bloom Color and Flower Power

'Pardon My Lavender II' features abundant, lavender-purple flowers that bloom in dense, globe-like clusters from midsummer into late summer. Each blossom measures an impressive 2½ to 3 inches across, rivaling much taller Monarda selections for visual impact. The bright lavender color draws pollinators—such as butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees—while delivering a cool splash of color for borders, mass plantings, and containers. The fragrant flowers also make excellent cut stems for indoor arrangements. 

Growth Habit, Height, and Width

This Proven Winners variety forms a compact, upright clump, reaching a mature height of just 14–18 inches and spreading 22–28 inches wide. The growth habit is neat and well-branched, making it easy to tuck into the front of garden beds or small spaces where traditional tall bee balms simply won’t fit. Glossy deep green leaves form a dense mound that remains attractive all season, with a pleasant minty fragrance released when brushed or crushed. 

Easy Care for All Gardeners

'Pardon My Lavender II' commonly called Bee Balm is delightfully easy to grow. It thrives in full sun for optimal flowering but performs well in partial shade (at least 4–6 hours of sunlight daily). The plant prefers rich, moist soil but adapts to ordinary garden conditions; amending heavy or sandy soils with organic matter will improve drainage and overall performance. Consistent moisture is key during establishment, and once settled, the plant offers moderate drought tolerance, requiring extra water only during dry spells. 

Maintenance is low: remove spent blooms to encourage a lengthier display and a tidier look. In spring, cut back stems to around 12 inches to promote robust growth, and trim again after flowering in fall to prepare for winter. Fertilizer is rarely needed; a balanced granular garden feed in early spring is enough for vigorous blooming. With excellent powdery mildew resistance and deer resistance, 'Pardon My Lavender II' stays healthy without constant fuss. 

Key Features and Uses

• Fragrant mint-scented foliage and flowers 

• Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, supporting pollinator health 

• Perfect for borders, containers, rain gardens, and wildlife gardens 

• Native to North America, hardy in USDA Zones 4–9 

• Resistant to deer, tolerant of summer heat, and suitable for both beginners and advanced gardeners 

Monarda didyma 'Pardon My Lavender II' delivers reliable color, fragrance, and garden vitality—making it an effortless, rewarding choice for anyone looking to enhance their landscape or patio with beauty and pollinator appeal. 

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